Tasks:

• Develop algorithms that generate drivable trajectories from perception data
• Work on path planning, target line generation and mission-dependent behavior
• Design speed profiles and steering commands for autonomous driving
• Improve control concepts for precise and stable vehicle guidance
• Contribute to signal filtering, trajectory smoothing and controller robustness
• Support integration of planning and control into the full ROS 2 vehicle stack
• Validate algorithms in simulation and on the real car
• Document controller behavior, parameter choices and test results

Profile:

• Ongoing or completed studies in Mechatronics, Robotics, Control Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science or a related field
• Interest in control theory, vehicle dynamics, robotics or mathematical modeling
• Good analytical skills and a structured engineering mindset
• Programming experience in Python and/or C++
• ROS 2 knowledge is beneficial, but not mandatory in every case
• Motivation to connect theory with practical performance on a real race vehicle

What awaits you:

This role is about turning perception output into precise, stable and competition-capable vehicle motion. You will work on the algorithms that decide where the car should drive and how it should follow that trajectory. This includes not only the geometric side of path planning, but also the dynamic side of making the vehicle react predictably and safely under different mission requirements.

You will gain hands-on experience with trajectory generation, speed planning, signal filtering and control design in a highly demanding real-world application. The work is strongly interdisciplinary: you will collaborate with the perception and mission-control side while also interacting with the vehicle integration team to understand actuator limits, safety behavior and testing constraints. The role is especially suited for students who enjoy mathematical thinking but do not want to stay purely theoretical. Here, every algorithm must prove itself on track. Your contribution will directly influence lap quality, stability, speed and overall autonomous vehicle performance.

Time expenditure: At least 10 hours per Week

What We Expect in Addition

Beyond technical competence, we place great value on personal commitment and the ability to work effectively within a team. Formula Student is a performance-driven development project that only succeeds through reliability and personal responsibility.

We expect:

• Reliability and adherence to agreements
• Independent and structured working style
• Clear and respectful communication within the team
• Willingness to actively participate in meetings and test days
• Thorough documentation of one’s own work
• Long-term commitment throughout the entire season

We are not looking for passive participants, but for team members who take ownership and actively contribute to the performance of our vehicle.

Application Requirements

To apply for a position within the team, please send an email containing the following information:

Personal Information

Please include the following basic information in your email:

• Full name
• Study program
• Current semester
• University

Motivation Letter, MAX 1000 characters (Optional)

Please attach a short motivation letter explaining:

• Why you want to join the Formula Student team
• Why the specific position interests you
• What motivates you to contribute to the development of the race car
• Any relevant background, experience, or skills you would like to highlight

This does not need to be a formal job application. However, we expect a structured and thoughtful explanation of your motivation and interests.

Availability

Please clearly state:

• How many hours per week you are realistically able to contribute to the project

Optional (but helpful)

You may also include:

• Previous technical or project experience
• Programming, CAD, or other relevant skills
• Personal projects or extracurricular activities

Applications should be sent to the email address listed in the respective job description.